I was one of the very many fortunate students to have studied with Ralph at the University of Hertfordshire Doctor of Management (DMan) programme.  I was in awe of him as a teacher, and cherished my time listening to him talk about complex responsive processes of relating, and reading his many books.

I was also a bit scared of him.  I always knew he meant well, and wanted to challenge me, but nevertheless his very direct critique sometimes felt uncomfortable, but ALWAYS stretched me to a higher level, and for that I will always be grateful.

On one of my early residential weekends, I made a comment during a session Ralph was leading, and he basically told me that my comment was rather stupid (he was right, but at the time it was very hard).  This became known in DMan folklore as an "oh shit" moment!)

When he read an early draft of my final project, he told me that the narrative was "boring". Again, he was right.  Not many people would come out with it so directly, not mincing words.  This was the impetus for a complete re-write, and when he acted as my examiner in my mock viva some months later, the praise he gave me felt like the highest accomplishment.

Ralph will remain in my memory for ever, the impact he has had on my practice is huge.

Rest in peace, dear teacher.